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Kashi Vishwanath Temple Suspends VIP Darshan for New Year Crowd Management

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi has suspended all VIP darshan facilities from December 24 to manage the expected surge of devotees during the New Year period. Temple CEO Vishwa Bhushan Mishra stated the decision was made to ensure safety and provide equal access through the regular "jhanki darshan" process for all visitors. The temple anticipates 5-8 lakh devotees, similar to previous years, though footfall saw a 40% decline post-Mahakumbh. The ban, emphasizing that temple visits are "a matter of belief, not ego," will be reviewed once crowd levels normalize.

Key Points: Kashi Vishwanath Temple Bans VIP Darshan for New Year Surge

  • VIP darshan suspended from Dec 24
  • Ensures safety & equal access
  • Expected 5-8 lakh devotees
  • Decision may be revisited post-surge
2 min read

Kashi Vishwanath Temple bans VIP Darshan to manage expected surge in devotees during New Year

Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi suspends VIP darshan from Dec 24 to manage New Year crowds, ensuring equal access for all devotees.

"It will not be possible to provide any special facilities during peak hours. - Vishwa Bhushan Mishra, Temple CEO"

Varanasi, December 26

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi has suspended VIP darshan from December 24 to manage the large crowds during the New Year.

Speaking to ANI, Kashi Vishwanath Mandir CEO Vishwa Bhushan Mishra said the Temple Trust decided to suspend VIP darshan from December 24 due to expected increases in the number of devotees.

" It has been noticed that the crowd increases during the end and beginning of the New Year, and it has already begun increasing since yesterday," said Mishra.

"On December 24, 2025, the temple trust decided that it would not be possible to provide any special facilities, implement any protocol, or grant any special access for darshan.", he stated.

He further elaborated on the normal darshan process, which will be available to all devotees.

"So, the general instruction is that it will not be possible to provide any special facilities during peak hours. Regular darshan, which we call "jhanki darshan", is available for all devotees. It is the same process for every visitor."

This move aims to ensure a smooth experience for the influx of pilgrims. Mishra indicated a potential revisit to VIP facilities once crowds subside.

"Therefore, it has been decided to postpone this (VIP Darshan) for the time being, and once the crowds subside and the number of devotees returns to normal, we will consider what facilities can be provided.", the CEO stated.

When asked about the number of devotees in the previous year, he said it was around 5-8 lakh. He mentioned that the same rush is expected this year for the New Year as well.

He noted that there could be an exception this year, as they have seen a decrease in visitors after Mahakumbh, with around a 40% decline in devotees.

He said the ban was implemented to ensure the safety and security of every worshipper and that visiting the temple is a matter of belief, not ego, so they appealed to everyone to respect this decision.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most famous temples in Varanasi, visited by people from around the world for its spiritual significance. It was built in 1780 by the Maratha Monarch, Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
While I appreciate the sentiment of equality, this could create chaos. VIP darshan helps manage crowds by creating separate channels. Without it, the lines might become unmanageable and unsafe. The temple administration needs a robust crowd management plan, not just the removal of facilities.
A
Aman W
Finally! A step in the right direction. Bhakti should not have a VIP lane. My parents are elderly and always struggle in the general queue while seeing others go ahead. This New Year, everyone will have the same experience. Good move by the trust.
S
Sarah B
Visiting from the US, and I think this is a wonderful policy. It shows respect for the spiritual journey of every individual. The temple is about faith, not status. Looking forward to experiencing the darshan with everyone else this New Year.
V
Vikram M
The CEO is right - it's a matter of belief, not ego. We Indians often create hierarchies everywhere, even in places of worship. This temporary ban sends a powerful message. Hope other major temples take note, especially during festivals.
K
Karthik V
Practical decision for crowd control. 5-8 lakh devotees is a massive number. Safety has to be the priority. The 'jhanki darshan' for all is the best way to handle the surge. Hope they have enough staff and facilities for water & shade in the queues.

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